Notes

Reviews

This was my first show. I flew out to the Bay Area from Bloomington, In at 17 years old for spring break. I just wanted an alternative to Florida and was more familiar with the history of Hendrix in SF and knew nothing of the GD until I had already bought my airline ticket. At which point I was notified, by a friend, to buy ticket for for all three of these shows, which I duly accepted.
I also convinced two other underage accomplices to accompany me. We arrived 3-4 days before this first show.
I saw about 40 shows after these, but honestly I felt that I witnessed an end of an era at this venue. I only wanted to go west afterwards. I listen to some of the east coast shows from the same time and ask myself why I was not more on it for MSG or Hampton but really -no regrets. the tape doesn't Quantify The essence of how surreal and wonderfully casual this audience and venue was. For example, I'm certain of seeing the same black security guard that was in the GD movie. -Anyone know his name? I remember the hardwood floors of the Kaiser that people unrolled blankets on. Some people brought fruit and bongs. It was like a picnic. There were fellas playing Hacky Sack in the middle of the floor. There was no rush to the front row. It was like most people were going to the part of the venue they were most familiar. Very special indeed.

Reviewer:jboyaquar -
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November 9, 2005 Subject:
Better than any of the February shows

1st Set: My goodness it's been awhile since they've played an "Alabama." Not the smoothest take-off, but Phil undeniably makes his presence felt. Rough overall, but kinda cool to hear it again. The effort's there throughout "Greatest" as well allowing for forgiveness for those awkward sound effects and the other '1st gig in a month' issues. "Stagger" (also not played in Feb)continues the iffy start, 'getting it together after 35 seconds' routine. "Walkin" is nice, but not haunting. How about Jerry's instrument on "Candyman"?(not played in Feb.) There's a lot of intent behind this version. Nice harmonizing. How new was "Queen Jane" by this point? Inspiring scuzz rock with some ethereal flourishes. "Big Boss Man" sounds appropriately woozy. "Cassidy" is prettier than 'Queen,' dynamic but restrained. "Ease" bounces us off to high expectations for a dynomite 2nd. A "back in a bit" from Jerry. Fine.

2nd set: Jerry's voice is weak but it's always nice to be greeted with "Scarlet." Thank goodness business picks up after the 4:00 minute mark. Mickey and Billy are tight and want to rock out. Great 5:30 flourish. "Fire," Jerry's telling an amazing story; technically amazing to behold; it's akin to grungy Neil Young. But Jerry reaches some amazing places 10:30s & 40s, and early 11's. Funny moment afterwards as crowd roars in appreciation, Jerry offers an Ed McMahon like 'eeeyyo' with his buddy. There's a casual, nonchalant confidence to the band's "Playing" tonight. It's brisk and wah-wah at first, then dissembles into something much more interesting and awesome :O) "Drums" instinctively heads for the tribal fire. "Space" fries me out during the 5's. "The Wheel" is fine for a head-sway or two, but it's too often arrival after 'Drums' is beginning to wear. "Gimme" is fine and keeps the brew chugging. "Watchtower" blisters in the late 2's, very early 3's. Solid! Oh yes, the first "Dew" of '88 sparkles and gets appropriately intensely transcendent at the end. Still less than 10 minutes, wonder how that works out.

I search high and low for sick candyman's and this one is up there....great fret work by garcia, a few extra fills on vocals makes t soulful. so far, so good in terms of sound, I would give it a 4. a little hallow, but a solid board.
jerry seems to be enjoying himself, playing rapid scales and hollering a little bit...always fun to hear.
check it: Fire shreds!!! my lord.

Great morning dew. There are some uneven parts to this but very listenable indeed - Phil steps up in gimme some lovin and the scarlet>fire playin is hot as is stagger lee, candyman.

Reviewer:Ski Nose -
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September 14, 2004 Subject:
Amazing Show If you were there, you need this show.

First,

I wanna say I LOVE THE ARCHIVE!!!!

Next,

You need this show. The Scarlet Fire RIPS!!!!! Playing jazz jams it's way to a meltdown much like Monterey later that summer. The Watchtower is completely shredded by Jerry. And the morning dew rocks!!!!